The headline of this column is a plea that Greta, the great dog, would utter if she could speak. She is becoming a longtime resident of the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard. She does have a human admirer who comes to take her for long walks. When he walks in the door her ardor is hard to miss what with the wiggling and tail-wagging she displays. Unfortunately, this person cannot adopt her at the moment, but he will be happy to write her a reference. She will be a loyal companion to the person who gives her a forever home. Mark your calendars. There will be a Walk for the Animals on Saturday, Oct. 12, unless it rains in which case it will take place on Monday, Oct. 13. All participants will meet at the Oak Bluffs School at 10 a.m. The event will end at noon. Each entrant is asked to sign up sponsors, as many as possible. The donation amount is to be determined by the individual sponsor, but even a small amount is welcome. Remember that a drop in the bucket can become a full barrel. Sign-up forms are available at the shelter and at the home page online.

The featured animals at the shelter this week occupy two cages in the lobby. The sleek and sweet guinea pig mother lives in the top one and her sons reside below. There were three of these chocolate brown and white babies originally, but one has already gone to a new home. Gizmo is the talkative one. He loves to be held and stroked and expresses his pleasure in joyful squeaks. His brother, Oreo, is more reserved but equally fond of attention. These animals make perfect pets for small children. No danger of biting or scratching from these cuddly guys.

A reminder to all the kind people who wish to donate to the shelter. We beg you not to leave your discarded linens on our doorstep. It costs us money to dispose of this material. We cannot use opened bags of dog or cat food either. We could use laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, paper towels, kitty litter, sponges and the like. Our wish list includes a dust buster to make cleanup a bit easier.

Come see our lovely cats awaiting homes. We encourage visitors to provide a temporary lap even if they cannot provide a permanent home.

Shelter hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The shelter is closed Sunday and Monday. The telephone number is 508-627-8662.

Contributions are always gratefully accepted; the shelter is funded solely by donations. Please make checks out to The Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard; the mailing address is P.O. Box 1829, Edgartown MA 02539.